THE MINISTRY OF LECTOR

"When the Sacred Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself speaks to his people, and Christ, present in his word, proclaims the Gospel. Therefore, the readings from the Word of God are to be listened to reverently by everyone, for they are an element of the greatest importance in the Liturgy. Although in the readings from Sacred Scripture the Word of God is addressed to all people of whatever era and is understandable to them, a fuller understanding and a greater efficaciousness of the word is nevertheless fostered by a living commentary on the word, that is, by the Homily, as part of the liturgical action."(General Instruction of the Roman Missal [GIRM], no. 29)

 

Functions of the Lector

The Introductory Rites

In the procession to the altar, in the absence of a Deacon, the reader, wearing approved attire [see GIRM, no. 339], may carry the Book of the Gospels, slightly elevated. In that case, the reader walks in front of the Priest but otherwise walks along with the other ministers.

Upon reaching the altar, the reader makes a profound bow with the others [see also GIRM, no. 274]. If he is carrying the Book of the Gospels, he approaches the altar and places the Book of the Gospels upon it. Then the reader takes his own place in the sanctuary with the other ministers. (GIRM, nos. 194-195)

The Liturgy of the Word

The reader reads from the ambo the readings that precede the Gospel. In the absence of a psalmist, the reader may also proclaim the Responsorial Psalm after the First Reading.

In the absence of a Deacon, the reader, after the introduction by the Priest, may announce the intentions of the Universal Prayer from the ambo.

Interested in becoming a Lector?
Those who proclaim the Word of God during Mass (a Lector) share in the work of God who speaks to his people through the Liturgy.  What a beautiful ministry to participate in!

We will help you feel comfortable!  A resource book is provided to help you grow in your understanding of Scripture and to help you proclaim the Word clearly and with reverence and conviction.  
Training is also provided before you begin this ministry.  Once you feel comfortable, Lectors are scheduled to read at the Mass of their choice.    It is preferable that there be two people assigned to read at weekend Masses.

If you are interested in serving either Holy Name of Jesus Church or St. Alphonsus Liguori Church as a lector, please speak to our pastor or to the coordinator of this ministry.